5 reasons to visit the 'historic' County Durham town with links to ITV's Vera
Set amid the rolling landscapes of the North Pennines, Stanhope is a historic market town that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a welcoming village feel, according to visitors.
Known as the gateway to Weardale, Stanhope is placed for both exploration and relaxation.
Stanhope is no ordinary small town—it is layered with centuries of English history.
The Parish Church of St Thomas is a must-see, showcasing Norman and Early English architecture with later restorations.
The churchyard is home to a 320-million-year-old petrified tree stump, one of three discovered locally—another of which is now in Newcastle's Great North Museum.
Another top site is Stanhope Castle, a striking 18th-century structure built in 1798 for Cuthbert Rippon, former MP for Gateshead.
Standing on a possible medieval castle site, the present-day building has had many lives—including as a school—and today contains private residences.
While not open to the public, its presence dominates the town centre and adds a dramatic architectural note.
Stanhope lies within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)—the second largest in England and Wales.
It's a landscape of moorland, river valleys, waterfalls, and dramatic uplands.
From Stanhope, you can explore the River Wear via walking trails, picnic along its banks, or venture into surrounding areas like Ashes Quarry for sweeping panoramic views of the dale.
And in the summer months, visitors can cool off in one of only two heated open-air swimming pools in the North East—right in Stanhope!
The Durham Dales Centre, located near the town centre, is the ideal starting point for any visit.
Housed in a lovingly converted historic building, the centre features a tourist information hub, an excellent tea room, and a collection of local craft and gift shops.
It's a great place to meet artisans and pick up handmade goods inspired by the surrounding landscape.
The centre also hosts seasonal events, exhibitions, and workshops, making it a cultural anchor for the town and a warm welcome for visitors.
Stanhope is the current terminus of the Weardale Railway, a heritage line offering scenic weekend rides between Bishop Auckland and the Durham Dales, with stops at Frosterley, Wolsingham, and Witton-le-Wear.
This preserved railway line brings the region's industrial past to life, giving passengers a relaxed and nostalgic way to experience the countryside.
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Stanhope station itself is charming, complete with a tearoom, and has even starred as 'Partlington Station' in the popular ITV drama Vera.
Train lovers, families, and anyone craving a leisurely ride through some of England's most unspoiled upland scenery will find this heritage journey a highlight.
Every September, the town hosts the Stanhope Agricultural Show, one of the oldest country shows in England, first held in 1834.
This traditional event—paused only for world wars and the 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak—celebrates local farming, rural life, and community spirit.
Expect livestock competitions, craft displays, equestrian events, traditional music, and local food stalls.
It's a vibrant and family-friendly celebration of Weardale's deep agricultural roots and an ideal opportunity to connect with the area's rural identity.
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